Like most pet owners, you want the best life for your pet—including great health, happiness, and vitality. Did you know that their dental health plays a key role? Good oral hygiene is an indicator of your pet’s overall well-being. A bright, healthy smile is one, but only one, benefit of good dental health.

Dove Mountain Veterinary’s team wants to inform and educate pet owners regarding periodontal disease in pets, so we are providing details about the disease, including the signs, treatment, and prevention. 

An overview of periodontal disease in dogs and cats

You probably have a good idea about periodontal disease as it relates to our own dental health. Likewise, cats and dogs who lack good oral hygiene will likely develop the disease. Periodontal disease is defined as an ongoing inflammation of the supportive structures of the teeth, which results when oral bacteria flourish and plaque and tartar accumulate. 

Without intervention, infections, abscesses, tooth loss, and jaw bone loss pain can develop, and eventually, the heart, kidneys, and liver can be damaged. 

Signs of pet periodontitis

Too often, pet owners don’t notice changes in their pet’s oral health. Looking inside your pet’s teeth is likely not on your to-do list, but examining your pet’s mouth and teeth regularly can help ensure you notice any changes and get veterinary help early. The more obvious periodontitis signs at different stages of severity include:

  • Halitosis or bad breath
  • Discolored (i.e., brown or yellow) teeth
  • Inflamed, red gums
  • Bleeding along the gum line
  • Favoring one side of the mouth while chewing
  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased drooling
  • Mouth sensitivity
  • Loose or missing teeth

Your pet needs an urgent veterinary examination if you see any of these signs. The sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of slowing down disease progression. 

The four stages of periodontal disease

When your veterinarian examines your pet, they will determine whether your pet has periodontal disease and the disease stage. Periodontitis occurs in four distinct clinical stages, from mild to severe. The stages are:

  • Stage 1: Gingivitis — Tartar (i.e., calculus) has developed and gingivitis (i.e., red, inflamed gums) is present. Your pet may have some discomfort and mouth sensitivity at this stage.
  • Stage 2: Early periodontitis — At this stage, the teeth may start to lose support, bleed, and become inflamed. A veterinary dental cleaning is required to remove the heavy coating of plaque and calculus on the teeth.
  • Stage 3: Established periodontitis — This stage is considered established or moderate periodontitis, with as much as 50% bone loss, and has significant impact on the tooth supporting structures. Veterinary dental intervention is often required to save the affected teeth. 
  • Stage 4: Advanced or severe periodontitis — This is considered an urgent situation for your pet’s overall health. Your pet will have significant pain, infection, 50% or more bone loss, and mobile, broken, or missing teeth. Also at this stage, the accumulated bacteria may enter the bloodstream and damage the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

There’s no time like the present to check your precious pet’s dental health. If you suspect your pet is suffering oral pain, contact us right away.

Is periodontal disease in dogs and cats reversible?

There is good news—the earlier you catch the disease, the more you can prohibit its advancement. This is why annual or twice-yearly examinations are critical to detect changes in your pet’s health. Professional dental cleanings are most effective during stages 1 and 2 and are vital for all cats and dogs older than 2. 

Prevention is key for good health

Preventive care is ubiquitous to overall optimal health. Daily toothbrushing and regular oral examinations are important for staving off pet dental disease. Stay diligent in your pet’s oral hygiene through:

  • Brushing — Brush your pet’s teeth daily, or at least every other day. Use pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for cats or dogs, which come in a variety of sizes. Do not use your own toothpaste, since human toothpastes contain ingredients toxic for pets.
  • Inspecting — Check your pet’s teeth weekly to look for any disease signs, such as redness, inflammation, tooth discoloration, or bleeding.
  • Consulting — Ask your veterinarian to recommend a dental health diet. Many of these special diets can prevent plaque development in your cat or dog. 

February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and a great time to schedule your pet’s dental checkup. Of course, oral hygiene is a must for your four-legged friend throughout the year.  Make an appointment this month for our team at Dove Mountain Veterinary to examine your pet’s teeth and assess their overall health. We look forward to seeing you and your pet.